NBA Secretary Summoned For Defamation

The executive Director of Lawyers For Justice Reform, identified As Aare Oladotun Hassan  has been invited by the police for alleged defamation of Stella Okotete, Executive Director (Business Development) at the Nigeria Export-Import (NEXIM) Bank.

Hassan is also the Secretary of the Epe Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association.

The group had demanded the sacking of Okotete over alleged fraud.

It was revealed that Okotete did not have any experience in the banking industry as required by the law.

“A minimum of first degree or its equivalent in any discipline plus a higher degree or professional qualification in any business-related discipline.

Candidates must also have a minimum of 18 years post-graduation experience, out of which at least 13 must be in the banking industry and at least 2 as General Manager,” the CBN document reads.

“Evidence of experience in several areas of banking operations including business development and customer services management.”

However, Lawyers For Justice Reform in a petition to Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation demanded the sacking of Okotete for “serial criminal activities bordering on excessive and reckless abuse of office, deceitful misrepresentation of her qualifications to earn the post of the Executive Director of the NEXIM Bank.”

Not satisfied, the group led by Hassan dragged the President before the Federal High Court in Lagos over the appointment of Okotete.

Days after the suit was filed before the court, the police invited the lawyer over an allegation bordering on criminal defamation of character.

“This office is investigating a case of criminal defamation, wherein your name featured,” the letter dated December 21 reads.

Meanwhile, Hassan has asked the police to suspend all actions on the issue as the matter is already before a court in Lagos.

“We are solicitors to Barr. Aare Oladotun Hassan (Our Client) we write this letter in respect of your letter dated 21st December 2022 with reference number CR.3000/FIB/FHQ/LD/ABJ/44/479 in which our client was summoned to your office in relation to defamation case reported against him by one Mrs Stella Oketete,” he said in a letter written by his lawyer to the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Force Intelligence Bureau.

“As much as our client is interested in following peace with all men, we also wish to bring to your kind attention that the subject matter of her defamation report is currently being litigated in a fundamental right action with suit number FHC/L/CS/2522/22 before federal High Court, Lagos Division in which we are challenging your power and right to arrest him or make any investigation in that regard. The bailiff of the Honorable Court should have served your good office by now.

“Owing to this development, it is only logical that your good office suspends all arrest, investigation and invitation until we determine the illegality of your investigation, invitation and possible arrest. We hereby pray that you kindly hold power and allow the court to determine the merit first. We understand that your office has respect for court institution and matter that is Lis pended should be left for court. Please find the attached copy of the filed process attached herewith. We thank you for your understanding and wish you compliments of the season.”